Gravity with torsion in non-conservative Maxwell-like gauge approach

Abstract

In this work, we take into consideration a generalization of Gauge Theories based on the analysis of the structural characteristics of Maxwell theory, which can be considered as the prototype of such kind of theories (Maxwell-like). Such class of theories is based on few principles related to different orders of commutators between covariant derivatives. Their physical meaning is very simple, and lies in stating that the local transformations of a suitable substratum (the space-time or a particular phase space) and the imposed constraints define a “compensative mechanism” or the “interaction” we want to characterize. After a mathematical introduction, we apply this approach to a modified theory of gravity, in which the algebra of operators of covariant derivatives leads to an additional term in the equation of motion associated with the non-conservation of the energy–momentum tensor. This offers the possibility to include, without ad hoc physical assumptions and directly from the formalism, new forms of coupling between matter and energy and the expression of the mixing between gravity and torsion.